Abu Dhabi: The UAE Ministry of Human Resources and Emiratisation has ordered the closure of 11 illegal domestic worker recruitment agencies in Al Ain, in coordination with the Abu Dhabi Registration Authority (ADRA).

Inspections revealed that the agencies were operating without ministry approval, and several complaints had been received from residents. The ministry urged residents to contact only approved agencies when hiring domestic workers.

Agencies across the country are under strict monitoring, and violations will be met with severe penalties. Complete information on approved agencies, including contact numbers, is available on the ministry’s website. The credibility of any recruitment agency can also be verified by calling 600590000. Employers seeking part-time domestic workers may use the ministry’s flexible work permit system.

Authorities stressed that any violations should be reported via digital channels, call centre, or Labour Claims Advisory Centre at 80084. This year, action has been taken against 40 illegal domestic worker recruitment agencies and 77 social media accounts across the UAE. They also cautioned the public to exercise care when responding to social media advertisements for domestic work. Hiring domestic workers without approval can result in fines ranging from 2,00,000 to 1 million dirhams and up to one year in prison.

Guidelines for Recruitment Centres

  • Domestic worker recruitment centres must comply with UAE labour laws. Employers are responsible for ensuring proper wages, treatment and accommodation.
  • Recruitment centres must educate workers on UAE customs and traditions before their arrival and explain proper complaint procedures.
  • Provide alternative workers or a refund of recruitment fees if placements fail.
  • All domestic workers must undergo medical examinations within 30 days of entering the UAE.
  • Adequate accommodation must be provided prior to transfer.
  • Recruitment centres are required to refund recruitment fees, in full or in part, if a worker proves professionally or morally unfit during the probation period, returns without cause, terminates the contract due to non-compliance, or fails a medical examination.
  • Fees, including government charges, must be refunded promptly if a worker is deemed unfit within the 6-month probation period.
  • All centres must also pay government fees.

Guidelines for Employers

Employers must pay salaries as agreed in line with ministry regulations and provide the necessary equipment and appropriate accommodation. Domestic workers are entitled to 30 days of paid annual leave per year of service. Workers with 6 months to one year of service are entitled to two days of leave per month. Unused leave may be compensated in cash, and employers must provide a return air ticket every two years.